The Studio K Dance Gallery recently finished its year on a high note.
"We've had an incredible year," said Sundre resident Kirsti Bennett, the studio's owner and instructor.
The group, which is made up of 100 dancers largely from Sundre, attended three Sparkle Dance Festivals ó the first in Olds on March 18-19, the second in Red Deer on March 25-26 and the third in Camrose on April 7-9 ó winning along the way numerous awards, including an accumulative total of about 50 gold medals.
Their season wrapped up with two recitals ó an afternoon and evening performance ó in Olds on Saturday, April 29 at the Fine Arts and Multi-media Centre, she said.
Classes resume during the second week of September, with early registration lined up in June. Dance classes are available essentially to all ages, she said.
"Our youngest dancers are two."
There are even parents of participants who have decided to get involved, she said.
"It's fun, the kids like to see their parents hit the stage."
After teaching dance in Sundre for about 10 years ó although this is her fifth year actually running Studio K Dance Gallery ó Bennett sounds as enthusiastic as ever to continue instructing.
"I have such a passion for dance," she said.
"I just absolutely love it! I love my job."
Establishing and building relationships with the children, as well as getting the opportunity to see them grow and progress not only as dancers but also as people, is a worthwhile and fulfilling experience, she said.
"There's nothing like teaching ó it's such a rewarding job."
Additionally, she strives to foster a stress-free, family-friendly atmosphere.
"They come to have fun and unwind and get tensions out. We have an amazing family team feeling at our studio."
Throughout its year, the group practises at the Sundre Arts Centre, where 35 classes are held every week Monday to Wednesday from 3:30 ñ 9 p.m. under the supervision of four instructors, including herself.
"We usually have about eight to 10 classes a day."
Also a sitting member of the volunteer-run Sundre Art Centre's board, she expressed appreciation for the opportunity to access and use the facility.
"It's nice to be able to support an incredible venue that our community has."
